Capsule Wardrobe Essentials: The Little Black Dress

Yes, the little black* dress is a cliche, but for good reason. It’s so ubiquitous that we often downplay its significance, but there is perhaps no item in a woman’s wardrobe that combines glamour and versatility as effortless as the LBD. And fortunately, unlike a few of the items on this list, a perfect little black dress is relatively easy to find. The ideal little black dress, the one you will reach for day after night, should possess the following qualities:

1. Simple: While I am typically a more-is-better type of girl, your go-to little black dress should be a blank canvas for maximum versatility. But simple doesn’t mean boring. With restraint comes the need for a beautiful fit and a great silhouette. The perfect little black dress works with a jacket to the office, with pearls for dinner, and with your favorite ballet flats for a day of running errands.

2. Flattering, mais oui. See my body type pointers, below.

3. Easy: The ideal LBD shouldn’t require intricate underwear or frequent fiddling to work. It should be easy to slip on and step out the door in style.

*Your little black dress can be navy, charcoal, or chocolate to suit your personal style or Color Code.

Here, my picks for the most flattering little black dresses for your body type, And, as always, you can see the breakdown of body types in this handy graphic, or make it official and have me do a professional body type and color analysis for you.

Style Dial #1

This proportional body type, with shoulders and hips the same width and a defined waist, looks best in a simple v-neck style, such as a wrap.

The Japanese GoWeave Sleeveless V-Neck Dress, Everlane, $98

Hannah Sheath Dress, BODEN, $190

Style Dial #2

Since a Style Dial #2 woman has narrow shoulders and curvy hips and thighs, a horizontal neckline and classic straight style will be flattering and versatile. Sheaths and shifts are great options for this style, as are fuller-skirted dresses. Details and interest at the top are very flattering for a Style Dial #2.

The Cotton Box-Cut Tee Dress, Everlane, $25

REFINED SCALLOP-EDGE PONTE SHEATH DRESS, Talbots, $129

Style Dial #3

A v-neck also flatters the proportional Style Dial #3, while added definition in the waist area is a bonus for this straight body type. Create definition at the waist with ruching and draping. Bias cut, drop waist, and v-necks are all flattering on this type.

Ruched ponte sheath dress, $128

Jane Tie Waist Midi Dress, GAL MEETS GLAM, $188

I hope you are inspired to find a beautiful, versatile little black (or navy, or chocolate) dress to suit you and your lifestyle. For more Capsule Wardrobe Essentials, check out my regularly updated Essentials Catalog with hand-picked item for every body type, budget, and lifestyle.